38. Boogerman Loop via Caldwell Fork Trail
Boogerman Loop is a great historical trail accessed via Caldwell Fork Trail in Cataloochee Valley. Experience more than a dozen creek crossings in one of the best old-growth forests in the Smokies.
37. Little Cataloochee Trail
Little Cataloochee Trail is a moderately difficult trail winding through historic homesteads and across creeks and rivers. Not far from Maggie Valley, Little Cataloochee Trail is popular with equestrians.
36. Mouse Creek Falls via Big Creek Trail
Mouse Creek Falls is accessed via a rather short, moderate hike on Big Creek Trail. A nice 45' tall waterfall as the payoff. Located near Hartford, TN in the Big Creek Campground area.
35. Hen Wallow Falls via Gabes Mountain Trail
Hen Wallow Falls is located about 2.1 miles from the Gabes Mountain Trail trailhead. The 95' drop creates a beautiful ice sculpture during winter freezes. A moderate hike taking just 3-4 hours.
34. Albright Grove Loop Trail
The old gravel road on Maddron Bald Trail gives way to a narrow forest trail about 2.3-miles from the trailhead as you enter a magnificent old-growth forest. The old trees reach to the sky and provide an amazing experience unlike any other in the park. You have almost arrived at Albright Grove Loop.
33. Oconaluftee River Trail
Oconaluftee River Trail is a short and easy hike with quick access from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center. In addition to hikers, dogs and bicycles are allowed. The open-air Mountain Farm Museum is an optional stop at the trailhead.
30. Old Settlers Trail via Maddron Bald Trail
Old Settlers Trail has more historical remnants than any other trail in the park. Early settlers flourished in this area. Many communities were built, then abandoned when park founders took the land for the park through eminent domain. Although this hike is included on our list of 38 Popular Day Hikes, you may want to finish it over two days.
29. Kephart Prong Trail
The hike to Kephart Shelter is 2.0 miles in each direction. Kephart Prong Trail parallels the Kephart Prong of the Oconaluftee River and is a nice place to enjoy the sites and sounds of the river. In addition, quite a few historical remnants remain from early 20th century buildings.
27. Porters Creek Trail
Wildflowers are in abundance at the trailhead and along the first two miles of the trail. Some say that a spring hike on Porters Creek Trail is unequaled in the Smokies. The best time to see wildflowers is from April to May, although the trail is open year round.
18. Noah “Bud” Ogle Nature Trail
The 30 minutes allotted for walking the trail does not take into consideration the time needed for looking at the historic buildings. You could spend a couple of hours in total, depending how closely you examine the old structures. In the spring, wildflowers are in abundance throughout the property.